100% examination at the end of semester 2 assessing learning outcomes 1 & 2
This examination will be mainly based around a practical session held during the semester which consists of setting up a small PA system in a venue.
Students will work on a case study of this PA system and similar designs and take their case study notes into the exam, where they will be asked a series of questions to gauge their understanding of the systems and of venue acoustic theory in general.

You will be introduced to aspects of sound propagation, history and development of the acoustic environment of larger rooms and performance spaces including concert halls and theatres. Students will develop an understanding of the components and specification of sound systems including concepts of system gain and level. A practical session will form the basis of a case study to be completed before the assessment. Students would typically place all equipment, correctly wire it and undertake a series of tests to ascertain its correct function.

PA system rack
Power amplifiers
Graphic equalisers
Crossovers
Compressors
Effects units
Mixing desk
Large venue
Clio systems
JBL speakers
Mid/top
sub
Cabling
Sound level meter

Davis & Davis. 2006, Sound System Engineering, 2nd Ed Focal Press.
Everest & Pohlmann. 2009, The Master handbook of Acoustics, 5th Ed Mcgraw Hill.
Higham, R. 2015, Introduction to Live Sound, Cambridge Media Group, Cambridge.
Stark, S.H. & BCI Media 2005, Live sound reinforcement: a comprehensive guide to P. A. and music reinforcement systems and technology, Bestseller edn, Thomson/Course Technology, Boston, Mass.
JBL Professional. JBL Sound System Design Reference Manual. 1999 (PDF provided in course).

1. UNDERSTAND THE HISTORY AND FUNDAMENTALS OF VENUE ACOUSTICS INCLUDING CONCERT HALLS AND THEATRES
[Knowledge and Understanding; Analysis]

2. DEMONSTRATE AN UNDERSTANDING OF THE SET UP AND DESIGN OF SIMPLE PA SYSTEMS
[Problem Solving; Application]

13x2 hour lectures plus 13x1 hr tutorials
1x2 hour practical session

You will be introduced to aspects of sound propagation, history and development of the acoustic environment of larger rooms and performance spaces including concert halls and theatres. Students will develop an understanding of the components and specification of sound systems including concepts of system gain and level. A practical session will form the basis of a case study to be completed before the assessment. Students would typically place all equipment, correctly wire it and undertake a series of tests to ascertain its correct function.